DISEASES OF THE CONJUNCTIVA 75 



periodically. Some physicians make no distinction 

 between this disease and true trachoma, but it is, with- 

 out doubt, a distinct disease. It responds readily to 

 simple treatment, while trachoma is most obstinate. 



Xerosis of the conjunctiva is a dry condition, and is 

 due to the action of a bacterium known as the xerosis 

 bacillus. It is a short bacillus, often appears in pairs, 

 end to end, sometimes broader at one end, and in many 

 cases resembles the Klebs-Loffler bacillus. 



The disease attacks those suffering from malnutrition. 

 It is scarcely seen in robust animals. It accompanies 

 other diseases— trachoma— and is nearly always pres- 

 ent in wasting diseases, near the point of death, and in 

 old and poorly fed beasts. It extends to the whole 

 surface of the conjunctiva and both eyes are involved. 

 There is a scanty secretion of a foamy nature deposited 

 upon the margin of the Hds and at their angles. This 

 secretion contains the baciUi in large numbers. The 

 character of the secretion, the dryness of the conjunc- 

 tiva, and the loss of briUiancy to the cornea— which 

 has a duU, greasy appearance— are the principal symp- 

 toms. 



As the disease accompanies malnutrition, suitable 

 tonics and a supply of sufficient food of a proper quahty 

 should be given. When it occurs with other diseases 

 of the conjunctiva these should be met with proper 

 treatment. In wasting diseases the condition is beyond 

 repair, and death only relieves the victim. 



